Doctors urge children and vulnerable adults to get MMR jab

DOCTORS are urging parents to ensure their children have had their MMR vaccination following an outbreak of measles in south Wales.The number of measles cases has continued to rise in London, with 68 reported within the first three months of the year compared to a total of 137 last year.However, the percentage of children in Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster having the jab against measles, mumps and rubella has fallen below the London and national average. Experts believe the current rise in measles is due to a high proportion of 10 to 16 year olds who missed out on the vaccination in the 1990s following a now disproved claim that there was a link to autism.West London Clinical Commissioning Group is targeting unvaccinated children in Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster.Chairman Dr Mark Sweeney said: “Measles can be very serious for some people so it’s important that your child gets the MMR jab. “The message for parents is simple.

DOCTORS are urging parents to ensure their children have had their MMR vaccination following an outbreak of measles in south Wales.

The number of measles cases has continued to rise in London, with 68 reported within the first three months of the year compared to a total of 137 last year.

However, the percentage of children in Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster having the jab against measles, mumps and rubella has fallen below the London and national average.

Experts believe the current rise in measles is due to a high proportion of 10 to 16 year olds who missed out on the vaccination in the 1990s following a now disproved claim that there was a link to autism.

Dr Mark Sweeney, chairman of West London Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Measles can be very serious for some people so it’s important that your child gets the MMR jab.

“The message for parents is simple. If your child has not been immunised with MMR you are putting their health at risk. Parents of unvaccinated children, teenagers and young adults who have missed out on the MMR should arrange for them to be vaccinated by their GP. If you are unsure whether your child has had two doses of the vaccine, speak to your GP practice, who will have a record.”

Measles starts with cold-like symptoms followed by a tell-tale rash and high fever. It can hospitalise one in 10 children and in extreme cases can result in death. Babies under one year, teenagers, older people and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable.